Invasive Axis Deer in Hawaii Being Harvested for Food
Axis deer, an invasive species in Hawaii, are being culled and turned into food to help mitigate their destructive impact on the environment
The introduction of axis deer to Hawaii in 1868 as a gift from the government of Hong Kong has had a profound impact on the ecosystem. Originally brought to the island for recreational hunting, the deer population has grown to an estimated 60,000, causing significant damage to native grasses and endangered plants.
## Environmental Impact The axis deer breed year-round, resulting in constantly growing herds that can leap over or barrel through fencing, consuming farmers' crops and cattle feed. This has led to a significant loss of native vegetation and has exacerbated drought conditions in the state. According to a 2011 US interior department report, the deer's voracious grazing of forest understory plants has threatened the survival of native Hawaiian forest birds.
## Harvesting the Deer Maui Nui Venison, a company that harvests the deer from privately owned ranches, has been working to turn the axis deer into a food source. The company's hunters use night-vision technology, infrared drones, and utility terrain vehicles to cull the deer, with the goal of balancing their population rather than eliminating them entirely. The deer are then turned into steaks, ground meat, bone broth, jerky, and organ-based health supplements.
## Community Benefits The company's efforts have also had a positive impact on the local community. Maui Nui Venison's Holo 'Ai program provides free ground meat to residents, helping to address food distribution challenges in the state. Hawaii imports a significant portion of its food supply, but the company's program aims to provide a local and sustainable alternative. The program has been particularly important during times of crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, when food distribution was a major challenge.
## Reforestation Efforts In addition to harvesting the deer, Maui Nui Venison is also working to restore native forests and promote reforestation efforts. The company has partnered with ranch owners to cordone off areas of land to grow endangered koa trees, which has helped to restore the area's aquifer and promote the growth of native birds. The reforestation efforts have also helped to mitigate the impact of devastating storms that swept through Maui in February and March, which highlighted the fragility of Hawaii's food system.
